Synthesis and pharmacological properties of 9-(N, N-dimethylaminopropyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carbolines.

Three novel tetrahydro-beta-carbolines: 9-(N, N-dimethyl-aminopropyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta carboline (2a), and its 1-methyl (2b) and 1-ethyl (2c) derivatives, were synthesized and investigated for their central action in mice. The compounds given in subtoxic doses caused sedation and loss of righting reflex. At low doses (approx 0.2 LD50) compounds 2a and 2b initially depressed, and then stimulated the locomotor activity, and at high doses they inhibited pentylenetetrazole convulsions. All three compounds displayed some analgesic action. Compunds 2a and 2b transeintly depressed the body temperature.